Specialized Resources

Local History Resources

Featured Resource

Our award-winning website highlights the events of the Civil War that happened right here in Kansas and Missouri. Students, teachers, and Civil War enthusiasts can view original photos, letters, and maps from partner organizations, an interactive timeline linking to articles written by historians, and lessons plans written for high school and college classrooms.

The Professional (1994, R)

This series would not be complete without The Professional. Mathilda (Natalie Portman) is only 12 years old but is already familiar with the dark side of life: her abusive father stores drugs for corrupt police officers, and her mother neglects her. Léon (Jean Reno), who lives down the hall, tends to his houseplants and works as a hired hitman for mobster Tony (Danny Aiello). When her family is murdered by crooked DEA agent Stansfield (Gary Oldman), Mathilda joins forces with a reluctant Léon to learn his deadly trade and avenge her family's deaths.

Central Cinema Nights is a movie screening in the Central Library’s Durwood Film Vault taking place Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Join us as we watch and discuss documentaries and feature films in a socially conscious setting, chosen to fit a monthly theme. This month's theme: First Roles, Famous Actors.

This May we are showcasing films in our collection that were the first roles for famous actors. From funny, to gritty, and on to absurd; these films were the first steps for these actors on their roads to fame.

Everyone is welcome! Movie screenings at the Central Library are always FREE and open to the public.